United Way of Southwest Virginia Buchanan County flood response wrap-up for July 18, 2022

Abingdon, VA (July 18, 2022) – More than $187,000 has been raised by United Way of Southwest Virginia (UWSWVA) to assist victims of the July 12 flooding in the Dismal River, Hale Creek, Jewell Valley, Patterson, Pilgrim's Knob and Whitewood areas of Buchanan County.

"With 65 residences having sustained major damage or having been completely destroyed, we know that we are looking at a need of upwards of $4 million to help these families have safe and livable homes again, whether it is through repair or rebuilding," said UWSWVA President and CEO Travis Staton. In addition to those figures, 28 homes sustained minor damage, and 36 have been categorized as "affected." Those numbers are likely to rise as assessments continue in the coming days. First estimates said as many as 400 structures were affected by the flood.

Individuals or organizations wishing to donate to the Buchanan County 2022 Disaster Fund may do so by visiting unitedwayswva.org or by contacting Cristie Lester at 276.525.4071. As always, every dollar donated goes directly to aid and assist those affected by the disaster.

Those wishing to donate household items should contact the Buchanan County Department of Social Services to find out exactly what items are being accepted at the present time. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) currently lists the following items as needed: cleaning supplies, bleach, disinfectants, rubber gloves, rubber boots, heavy duty trash bags, shovels, paper towels, propane tanks for gas grills, generators, gas cans, funnels, buckets, Gatorade, mops, and hygiene items.
NO donations of clothing items, water, or perishable food are being accepted at present.

Donations of needed items only are being accepted at:

Twin Valley Elementary School

9017 Riverside Drive

Oakwood, VA 24631

"There is much work to do, and we are in the very early stages of this effort to help our fellow Southwest Virginians," Staton said. "This will be a long recovery process, and United Way of Southwest Virginia is in it for the long haul."